Table 4. Barriers to biotechnology information transfer to non-academic stakeholders and possible solutions.


Target group

Barrier to reach them

Means to overcome barrier

Farmers and extension workers

Inadequate simple, translatable materials, logistics; level of farmer literacy; inadequate farmer’s organizations; lack of GE products; inadequate extension services

Use of local radio programs; training programs for farmers and extension workers; development of simple translatable IEC materials; study tours

Politicians and opinion leaders

Differing opinions on priorities for national development; lack of availability; inadequate awareness; inadequate lobbying

Workshops; champions within parliament; regular information supply from competent authorities; development and implementation of relevant legislation

Policy and decision makers

Bureaucracy; unavailability; confidentiality principles in the services; not convinced about the technology

Institutional networking; sensitization discussion fora; study tours; breakfast/luncheon meetings

Media

Too few well-informed science journalists; misconceptions; lack of interest; inadequate information supply from scientists; editorial policies influencing coverage and balance

Workshops; training modules for science writers; media discourse; contact with editors and feature  writers

Regulators and environmentalists

Bureaucracy; insufficient legislation; insufficient knowledge; misconceptions

Training modules for regulators; study tours; regular supply of simple IEC materials

Consumers and faith and culture leaders

Inadequate information supply to media; misconceptions; faith and cultural concerns

Radio/TV talk shows; information supply for the media; respected champions; simple IEC materials

 


Supported by UNESCO / MIRCEN network